Interview by Milda Urban, Summersalt Yoga retreat founder

Dimitra, who we met in Portugal, is one of those female artists whose presence immediately brings calm or contemplation. A gentle and genuine soul, she inspires through her art and words. Starting her journey as a painter, installation artist, and filmmaker, Dimitra has since evolved into sound-based work, where she continues to experiment and grow.

She led a soundscaping workshop that got everyone excited about the medium and even created a composition from our retreat, which you can listen to at the end of this interview.

From Greece to Amsterdam: Background of a Multidisciplinary Female Artist

Dimitra, you are a Greek artist working in Amsterdam. What’s your background?

Ι am coming from Thessaloniki, a beautiful city in the north of Greece. Currently, I work and live in Amsterdam, constantly exploring the city and involving myself in multidisciplinary art projects. Having recently graduated from a visual Fine Arts department, I’m now focused on exploring the sound art field. My current work reflects on how sound and performance art can act as an open, dynamic process.

Becoming an Artist: The Path to Authentic Expression

When did you realize that you wanted to become an artist and what were your first steps?

We’ve all been little artists—and still are! Since I can remember, I’ve been drawn to visual arts, music, and literature, painting all the time. I first studied Graphic Design and worked as a graphic designer, but felt something was missing. Coming from a background where art was not seen as a viable career, I even started studying pharmacy and worked in that field for a while. But the need to create never left me. I eventually left my “standard” life to travel and study Fine Arts in the Netherlands. Choosing a life in the arts meant facing reality and myself. For me, being an artist is about constantly learning and engaging with the world through many lenses.

The Evolution of Artistic Expression

Can you tell me more about your art?

Although I’ve always painted, in the academy I realized painting alone couldn’t answer all my questions. I began exploring non-narrative film and performance, and from there, found my way to sound. I’m currently working in an interdisciplinary format combining live performance, instant compositions, and happenings where sound plays a central role. My goal is to explore how sound and visual experiences can merge, and how we use sound to understand and shape the world—both physically and culturally.

Soundscaping and the Power of Active Listening

We did a workshop about soundscaping—what drew you into this artistic expression?

I loved sharing that workshop! We zoomed in on our aural environment using audio recorders to actively listen and document our surroundings. We explored how our bodies engage with space through movement and sound, then reflected on what we experienced. Soundscaping helps us question how we engage with our environment. Our culture undervalues listening, so this practice encourages personal discovery, calmness, and deeper awareness. Amplifying everyday sounds reveals new perspectives and brings us closer to ourselves, our memories, and our space.

Projects, Passion, and Progress as a Female Artist

What are the projects you are most proud of?

I’m especially proud of collaborative projects. One ongoing project, “Multirealities,” features a live sound composition mixing multiple soundscapes and even my own heartbeat, using a heart detector device. These performances combine remote live elements—like a violinist in Amsterdam or a singer in Greece—into real-time compositions. It explores aesthetic listening, the disappearing present, and how digital spaces affect artistic perception.

I’m applying for artist residencies around Europe now, hoping to grow this work, build connections, and continue evolving.

Living Between Cultures: Greece and Amsterdam

You are a Greek girl living in Amsterdam. How do these places differ, do you miss home?

The biggest difference is the weather! Amsterdam is rich in cultural opportunities and diversity. I love the open-minded vibe here and how easy it is to travel around Europe. Still, I miss Greece—especially the landscape and the people. I often include Greek sounds in my work to stay connected. While the Greek art scene is developing, Amsterdam currently offers more infrastructure for sound art. I feel lucky to call both places home.

Final Thoughts from a Rising Voice Among Female Artists

Dimitra’s path reflects the resilience and creativity found in many female artists navigating multiple cultures and mediums. From painting to sound installations, her journey reminds us that art is not only a form of expression but also a method of inquiry, transformation, and connection.

Dimitra continues to inspire with her ability to bridge sound, space, and identity. As a female artist, she redefines how we listen—not just to the world, but to ourselves.

Listen to Dimitra’s soundscape composition from our Girls Yoga & Surf Retreat in Portugal.

This interview was first published 2017.